Sloppy Joe Skillet

Sloppy Joe Skillet is a hearty, one-pan meal that combines tender potatoes with the rich, tangy flavors of classic sloppy joe sauce. Topped with melted cheese, it’s a comforting and easy dinner perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different vegetables or proteins.
• Comfort Food: Warm, cheesy, and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 5 medium yellow potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 small sweet onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 3 tablespoons BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon minced roasted garlic
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
2. Sauté the Onion: While the potatoes are baking, melt butter in a large heavy-bottom skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
4. Make the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer while the potatoes finish baking.
5. Combine and Top with Cheese: Once the potatoes are done, add them to the skillet with the meat mixture. Stir to combine evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Melt the Cheese: Cover the skillet with a lid or place it under the broiler for 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Protein Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Spice Level: Increase the heat by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Cheese Varieties: Use different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or provolone for a new flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze the meat mixture and potatoes separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and combining.

FAQs

Can I use frozen diced potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen diced potatoes can be used to save time. Cook them according to package instructions before adding to the meat mixture.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Any BBQ sauce you prefer will work. For a smoky flavor, choose a hickory-smoked variety; for sweetness, opt for a honey BBQ sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and potatoes separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and combine with cheese when ready to serve.

Is it necessary to bake the potatoes, or can I cook them in the skillet?

Baking the potatoes ensures they are crispy and evenly cooked. However, you can cook them in the skillet if preferred, though they may be softer.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.

What side dishes pair well with this skillet?

A fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or coleslaw complement the richness of the dish.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of yellow potatoes?

Absolutely, sweet potatoes add a different flavor and nutritional profile to the dish.

How can I make the dish gluten-free?

Ensure all sauces and condiments used are gluten-free, and verify that the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as some brands may contain gluten.

Can I add beans to this recipe?

Yes, adding canned beans like black beans or kidney beans can increase the protein and fiber content.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and can be portioned into meal prep containers for easy lunches or dinners.

Conclusion

Sloppy Joe Skillet is a delicious and satisfying meal that brings together the classic flavors of a sloppy joe sandwich in a convenient one-pan dish. With its combination of seasoned ground beef, crispy potatoes, and melted cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare and versatile, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy the comforting taste of this hearty skillet meal!

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